The last couple houses were under contract even before my viewing dates.

I was wondering if anybody had any tips that they use to successfully put a house under contract when looking to assign the property!

First, I had these 14 duplexes under contract for $450K.

I gave him a 3% "finders fee" (I didn't want to do the wholesale game where he put it under contract than "sold" it to me.

Who should I speak with on contract usage, do I need a lawyer involved, can I put everything thats being asked for on one contract, and what websites would I use to get clear info on if anything is owed on this property??

It is better for them to get half the profits than no profits, and you gain invaluable experience as they take you through the process with them.DO NOT go half-cocked and mail without having an understanding of the legal requirements for your area for assignment contracts.

It shows people you are serious about the investing, that you have a basic understanding of RE and some fundamentals that go along with it, and that you are legally able to be paid for your services. 

You are going to learn more by implementing the process than anything else.The most important thing is understanding timing of a wholesaling transaction and writing the contract correctly.

We put all occupants of legal age on the lease for the reason of additional parties to encumber if needed.

The earnest money is not always yours,Depending on the parameters of the contract and rider there could be a clause that states that protects the earnest money.